Is Kraft Mac and Cheese Real Cheese? The Truth Behind the Orange Box
Kraft Mac and Cheese, a nostalgic staple in many households, often sparks debate: Is it really cheese? In short, while the product contains processed cheese ingredients, its “cheese” sauce is largely a manufactured creation of cheese byproducts, flavor enhancers, and artificial colors, meaning it is not simply melted “real” cheese.
A Childhood Classic: Kraft Mac and Cheese and Its History
Kraft Mac and Cheese enjoys an almost iconic status, particularly in North America. Its popularity stems from its affordability, convenience, and familiar, comforting taste. But understanding its evolution and the ingredients involved helps to answer the persistent question of its cheese authenticity.
The story begins in 1937, amidst the Great Depression, when James L. Kraft patented a method for packaging cheese in a way that extended its shelf life. This innovation, combined with the inexpensive cost of macaroni, allowed Kraft to offer a quick, filling, and budget-friendly meal option. It quickly became a household staple.
Deconstructing the Ingredients: What’s Actually Inside the Box?
To understand if Kraft Mac and Cheese qualifies as “real cheese,” we need to examine its key components:
- Macaroni: Typically enriched macaroni product made from wheat flour. This component is rarely a point of contention.
- Cheese Sauce Mix: This is where the debate lies. The ingredients listed on a typical box include:
- Whey
- Milkfat
- Milk Protein Concentrate
- Salt
- Sodium Tripolyphosphate
- Citric Acid
- Lactic Acid
- Cheese Culture
- Enzymes
- Annatto Extract (for Color)
- Paprika Extract (for Color)
- Natural Flavor
While some of these ingredients, like milkfat, whey, and enzymes, are derived from milk and the cheesemaking process, they are byproducts rather than whole, matured cheese. Other ingredients, such as sodium tripolyphosphate, are used as emulsifiers and stabilizers. Annatto and paprika extract contribute to the characteristic orange color.
The Manufacturing Process: Transforming Ingredients into Golden Sauce
The process of creating the cheese sauce mix is complex. The raw ingredients are combined and processed to achieve a desired texture, flavor, and stability. Ingredients like whey and milk protein concentrate are reconstituted and blended with other components. This process often involves heating, mixing, and potentially drying the mixture. The resulting powder is then packaged and ready for consumers to reconstitute with milk and butter (or margarine).
Real Cheese vs. Processed Cheese: A Crucial Distinction
It’s crucial to distinguish between “real cheese” and “processed cheese.” Real cheese is made from milk, cultures, enzymes, and salt. It undergoes a maturation or aging process. Processed cheese, on the other hand, is made by blending various cheeses, often including cheese byproducts, with emulsifiers, stabilizers, and other ingredients. The goal is to create a product with a consistent texture, meltability, and shelf life. Kraft Mac and Cheese falls into the processed cheese category, even though it utilizes some cheese-derived ingredients.
The Role of Flavor Enhancers and Colorants
The flavor of Kraft Mac and Cheese is further enhanced by ingredients like natural flavor. While the exact composition of “natural flavor” is proprietary, it often includes flavor compounds derived from various sources, including dairy. The iconic orange color is achieved through the addition of annatto and paprika extracts, which are natural colorants, but not inherently cheese-related.
Comparison: Real Cheese vs. Kraft Mac and Cheese
| Feature | Real Cheese (e.g., Cheddar) | Kraft Mac and Cheese (Prepared) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Milk | Processed Cheese Sauce Mix |
| Ingredients | Milk, Cultures, Enzymes, Salt | Whey, Milkfat, Milk Protein Concentrate, etc. |
| Texture | Varies depending on type | Smooth, creamy (when prepared) |
| Flavor | Complex, nuanced | Simplified, consistent |
| Processing | Minimal | Extensive |
Nutritional Considerations: What Are You Really Eating?
Kraft Mac and Cheese is a source of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. However, it is relatively low in vitamins and minerals compared to real cheese. It is also high in sodium and processed ingredients. While it can be part of a balanced diet in moderation, it is not a nutritionally equivalent substitute for real cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Kraft Mac and Cheese considered a “dairy product?”
Yes, Kraft Mac and Cheese is considered a dairy product because it contains ingredients derived from milk, such as whey, milkfat, and milk protein concentrate. However, this doesn’t necessarily equate to it being equivalent to naturally aged cheese.
Does Kraft Mac and Cheese contain gluten?
Yes, Kraft Mac and Cheese contains gluten because the macaroni is typically made from wheat flour. However, Kraft offers a gluten-free version made with rice pasta and a modified cheese sauce.
Is Kraft Mac and Cheese vegetarian?
It depends on the enzymes used in the cheese-making process. Some enzymes are derived from animal sources (rennet), while others are microbial. Vegetarians should check the packaging or contact Kraft to determine the enzyme source used in a particular product.
What is sodium tripolyphosphate, and why is it in Kraft Mac and Cheese?
Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is an emulsifier and stabilizer. It helps to prevent the cheese sauce from separating and keeps it smooth and creamy.
Why is Kraft Mac and Cheese orange?
The orange color comes from the addition of annatto and paprika extract, which are natural colorants. These ingredients are added to achieve the consistent and recognizable color consumers expect.
Does Kraft Mac and Cheese expire?
Yes, like most food products, Kraft Mac and Cheese has a “best by” date printed on the packaging. While it may be safe to eat after this date, the quality and flavor may diminish.
Can I make Kraft Mac and Cheese healthier?
Yes, there are ways to make it healthier. Using whole wheat pasta, adding vegetables like broccoli or peas, and reducing the amount of butter or milk can increase its nutritional value.
Is Kraft Mac and Cheese considered “junk food?”
Whether it is “junk food” is subjective. While it is high in processed ingredients, sodium, and carbohydrates and relatively low in nutrients, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What is the difference between the powdered cheese sauce and the cheese in a Velveeta box?
Velveeta contains a higher percentage of real cheese compared to the powdered cheese sauce in Kraft Mac and Cheese. However, both are processed cheese products with emulsifiers and other additives.
Is there any real cheese in Kraft Mac and Cheese?
While the ingredients include cheese culture and enzymes, they are used in the processing of other components like whey and milkfat. The finished product isn’t just a case of melting down cheddar, for example.
Why does Kraft Mac and Cheese taste different today than it did when I was a child?
Changes in ingredients, processing methods, and flavor formulations may have contributed to perceived differences in taste over time. Individual taste preferences and memories can also play a role.
Is Kraft Mac and Cheese safe to eat?
Yes, Kraft Mac and Cheese is generally considered safe to eat when prepared according to the instructions on the packaging. However, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to dairy, wheat, or other ingredients should carefully review the ingredient list.